For nursing students passionate about serving communities in need, the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program offers a transformative chance to make a real difference.
This federal program provides significant financial support, including coverage for tuition, fees, and living expenses, in exchange for a commitment to work in underserved areas after graduation.
What Is the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program?
Administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the Nurse Corps Scholarship Program aims to address the critical shortage of nurses in specific communities across the United States.
By providing financial aid to nursing students, the program helps cultivate a skilled healthcare workforce committed to serving high-need populations in designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs).
Commitment to Serving Critical Shortage Facilities
Recipients of the Nurse Corps Scholarship receive funding for their nursing education and, in exchange, commit to working full-time for at least two years at an eligible healthcare facility, known as a Critical Shortage Facility (CSF).
This commitment is essential in ensuring that underserved areas have access to quality healthcare services.
Key Benefits of the Scholarship
The financial support offered by the Nurse Corps Scholarship is one of the most generous packages available to nursing students. Benefits include:
Full Tuition & Fees
The program pays for required tuition and fees directly to your nursing school.
Monthly Living Stipend
A substantial monthly stipend is provided to help cover living expenses while you study.
For the 2023–2024 academic year, this was approximately $1,419 (note: this amount is taxable and may change).
Essential Supplies Fund
Additional funds are provided for educational costs like books, clinical supplies, and instruments.
This comprehensive support allows students to focus on their studies without the pressure of accumulating significant student loan debt, which can often exceed $100,000 for a nursing degree.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
The Nurse Corps Scholarship is a competitive program with specific eligibility criteria. Before you apply, ensure you meet the following requirements:
| Category | Requirement |
| Citizenship | Be a U.S. citizen (born or naturalized), a U.S. national, or a lawful permanent resident. |
| Enrollment | Be accepted or enrolled as a full-time student in an accredited nursing program in the U.S. This includes diploma, associate (ADN), baccalaureate (BSN), or graduate (MSN, DNP) degrees. |
| Academic Start | Begin classes no later than September 30 of the application year. |
| Financial Status | Have no federal judgment liens or overdue federal debt. |
| Service Status | Have no existing federal service commitment. |
The selection process gives preference to applicants who demonstrate significant financial need and have a strong academic record.
A background in or a stated commitment to working in underserved communities is also a key factor.
The Nurse Corps Service Commitment
The core of the Nurse Corps Scholarship is its service obligation. Understanding this commitment is crucial before accepting the award.
Service Duration
You must work for a minimum of two years at an approved Critical Shortage Facility (CSF). The total service length is one year for each year of scholarship support received.
Location
Your service must be performed in a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA). These are locations with limited access to healthcare providers.
Eligible Facilities
CSFs include a wide range of healthcare settings, such as public or private hospitals, community health centers, rural health clinics, and certain other facilities located within an HPSA.
As of 2025, birth centers are also classified as an eligible CSF subtype.
Failure to complete the service commitment has serious financial consequences.
You will be required to repay the full amount of the scholarship funds you received, plus interest, and may face other penalties.
2025 – 2026 Application Timeline (Projected)
While official dates for the 2026 cycle have not yet been released by HRSA, the application window typically follows a consistent schedule.
Based on previous years, here is a projected timeline to help you prepare.
| Phase | Projected Timeframe |
| Application Opens | Late March / Early April 2026 |
| Application Deadline | Late April / Early May 2026 |
| Verification & Review | May – August 2026 |
| Award Notifications | September 2026 |
| Funding Begins | Fall Semester 2026 |
Note: These dates are estimates. Always check the official Nurse Corps Scholarship Program website for the most current information.
The application period is often short (around four weeks), so early preparation is vital.
How to Submit a Strong Application
A successful application requires more than just meeting the eligibility criteria.
It involves careful preparation and showcasing your passion for nursing in underserved communities.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Start collecting the necessary paperwork well in advance. This typically includes:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency.
- Official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
- Proof of acceptance or enrollment in a qualifying nursing program.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Financial information (often from your FAFSA or Student Aid Report).
Step 2: Write Compelling Essays
Your personal statements are your chance to tell your story. Use them to:
- Explain your motivation for becoming a nurse.
- Describe any experience you have working with underserved populations.
- Articulate why you are committed to serving in a high-need area.
- Connect your personal and professional goals to the mission of the Nurse Corps.
Step 3: Choose Your Recommenders Wisely
Select recommenders who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities, work ethic, and character.
A nursing instructor, a clinical preceptor, or an employer from a healthcare setting is an excellent choice.
Give them plenty of notice and provide them with information about the scholarship and your essays.
Step 4: Complete the Online Application
Create an account on the HRSA application portal (recently renamed “My BHW Account”) and fill out the application thoroughly.
Double-check all information for accuracy before submitting. Do not wait until the last minute, as technical issues can occur.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am already in nursing school?
Yes, as long as you have at least one academic year of school remaining before you graduate.
Is the monthly stipend taxable?
Yes, the monthly living stipend is considered taxable income. However, the funds paid directly to your school for tuition and fees are not.
Can part-time students apply for the scholarship?
No, the program requires applicants to be enrolled as full-time students at an accredited nursing school.
Can I choose the facility where I complete my service?
You are responsible for finding a job at an approved Critical Shortage Facility.
Get Ready to Make a Difference
By preparing early and crafting a thoughtful application, you can position yourself for success and take the first step toward becoming a leader in community health.
For the most up-to-date information, including official dates and application materials for the 2026 cycle, visit the official HRSA Nurse Corps website.
Emily Carter is an academic writer with 7+ years of experience in education research, specializing in scholarships, admissions, and student calculators. She creates clear, reliable and helpful content to support students in making informed academic decisions.
